NEWBERG --- The Bruins welcomed Whitworth, a top-three Northwest Conference opponent, to Austin Sports Complex on Saturday, Nov. 3. The Bruins used a smothering defensive approach and great possession control to avenge an early-season loss with a 3-0 win at home over the Pirates.

Recap:

The two sides tried to establish pace and possession early in a battle through the middle of the pitch, but the Bruins were able to set the tone after the opening 15 minutes. The Pirates were able to put a dangerous run together in the 27th minute, but Brooke Jones stepped up with a pair of saves to keep the 0-0 tie.

Three minutes later, the Bruins' heavy pressure on the back line of Whitworth paid off. Savannah Moisan picked off a clearance pass from the back line and beat the Pirates' keeper with a low-angle shot to the far post for the winning goal.

After carrying a 1-0 lead through the halftime intermission and into the first second half, the Bruins resumed their high pressure and kept the ball on the Pirates' half for the majority of the second half. That approach drew a penalty in the box in the 66th minute, and Puka Ahina stepped to the dot and buried the PK shot top left for a 2-0 lead.

The Bruins put the candles on the cake with a third goal in the 87th minute. Courtney Denn won a ball at the midline and played it through the center for Moisan. Moisan used a great burst to run on to the pass and beat the keeper one-on-one on the left post for her second goal of the match and a 3-0 lead that held as the final score.

Top Performers:

Moisan scored twice – once unassisted – and Jones kept a clean sheet with four saves for her third collegiate win and second career shutout in goal. Denn's pickoff and pass set up Moisan's second goal, and the Bruins' entire back line patrolled the field for George Fox to help preserve the shutout.

What It Means:

The Bruins improve to 6-9-2 overall and are 3-9-2 against NWC opponents this season with one match remaining in their 2018 campaign.

What Happens Next:

The Bruins celebrate Senior Day on Sunday, Nov. 4, with a season finale at home against the Whitman Blues. Be sure to arrive early as the Bruins honor their three seniors before the beginning of the match.